8 What about Cleaning?
Clasification Society 2024 - Version 9.40
Statutory Documents - IMO Publications and Documents - Circulars - Marine Environment Protection Committee - MEPC.1/Circular.792 – Guidance for Minimizing the Transfer of Invasive Aquatic Species as Biofouling (Hull Fouling) for Recreational Craft – (12 November 2012) - Annex – Guidance for Minimizing the Transfer of Invasive Aquatic Species as Biofouling (Hull Fouling) for Recreational Craft - 8 What about Cleaning?

8 What about Cleaning?

 It is important that you regularly assess the need for cleaning and the condition of the anti-fouling coating system. Where it is safe to do so, in-water inspections of your craft may be appropriate:

  • - at the beginning and end of a planned period of inactivity;

  • - before and after a significant change to the craft's operating profile; or

  • - following damage to, or failure of, the anti-fouling system.

 Where craft can be readily hauled out it is always preferable to clean the hull and niche areas out of the water where the waste can be effectively captured for proper disposal in accordance with local requirements. When cleaning your craft it is important that you consider the following precautions:

  • - haul your craft out of the water to clean it at least once a year;

  • - always follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying and maintaining your anti-fouling coating system;

  • - use cleaning methods and facilities that capture biological, chemical and physical debris; and

  • - coordinate cleaning or maintenance of the anti-fouling coating system, hull and niche areas with voyage or trip planning to ensure that the craft starts significant journeys as clean as practical.

 Checking, cleaning and drying gear and equipment such as anchors, chains, nets, bait wells, and sports equipment after each trip is also an effective way to avoid accidental transfer of invasive aquatic species between water bodies.

Parent topic: Annex – Guidance for Minimizing the Transfer of Invasive Aquatic Species as Biofouling (Hull Fouling) for Recreational Craft
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